Zach Ertz, aged 34, and Julie Ertz, aged 32, are not just athletic icons but also a true testament to a power couple who balance professional success and personal fulfillment. With Zach’s estimated net worth of $16 million as of 2025 and Julie’s impressive $3 million, their journey from young college athletes to proud parents of three children is as heartwarming as it is inspiring. Here’s an in-depth look at their relationship milestones and how they’ve grown together.
How Did Zach and Julie Ertz Meet?
Zach and Julie’s love story began in 2012 when they were introduced through mutual friends. At the time, Zach was a football player at Stanford University, while Julie excelled in soccer at Santa Clara University. Their first meeting happened during a Stanford baseball game, and the connection was instant despite their busy schedules and long-distance relationship.
When Did Their Careers Take Off?
Zach’s football career skyrocketed when he entered the NFL draft in 2013 and joined the Philadelphia Eagles as a tight end. Meanwhile, Julie made her debut for the United States Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT) the same year. In 2015, Julie was part of the USWNT’s historic World Cup victory, with Zach cheering her on from the sidelines.
When Did They Get Engaged and Married?
Zach proposed to Julie in February 2016 at Stanford’s baseball stadium, the very place they had first met. The thoughtful gesture included an engagement ring chosen with the help of Zach’s mother. A year later, in March 2017, they tied the knot in Santa Barbara, California. Their wedding was uniquely personalized, with nods to their sports careers—from jersey-clad flower girls to a custom cake adorned with footballs and soccer balls.
How Do They Support Each Other’s Careers?
Despite demanding careers, Zach and Julie have always been each other’s biggest fans. Julie’s jersey debuted her new last name shortly after their wedding, and Zach frequently traveled to watch her games. Julie, in turn, has been a regular presence at Zach’s NFL games, offering unwavering support during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles and later with the Arizona Cardinals.
What Role Does Philanthropy Play in Their Lives?
In 2018, the couple founded the Ertz Family Foundation to empower others through faith, education, and sports. Inspired by Zach’s trip to Haiti, the foundation has launched impactful initiatives, including their Score More n’ Feed More program. This campaign has donated over 500,000 meals to fight hunger in Arizona, with contributions tied to touchdowns scored by the Cardinals and Zach himself.
How Have They Balanced Family and Careers?
Balancing demanding sports schedules, Zach and Julie welcomed their first child, Madden Matthew, in August 2022. Their lives shifted as they embraced parenthood while continuing their athletic pursuits. In summer 2024, the couple surprised fans by announcing the birth of twins, further expanding their “starting lineup.” Despite these life changes, they’ve shown that mutual support and teamwork extend beyond the playing field.
How Did the Pandemic Impact Their Relationship?
The COVID-19 pandemic allowed Zach and Julie to live together full-time for the first time in their marriage. Speaking about the experience, Zach reflected on how it gave them a glimpse into life beyond their sports careers. Julie echoed this sentiment, describing their time together as a “blessing” and emphasizing the shared discipline that anchors their marriage.
What Is Their Approach to Celebrating Milestones?
Whether it’s anniversaries or birthdays, Zach and Julie make every moment special. From heartfelt Instagram posts to thoughtful gestures, their celebrations reflect the deep bond they share. Notably, Zach marked Julie’s 32nd birthday with the announcement of their second pregnancy, showing his admiration and excitement for their growing family.
How Have They Handled Challenges?
The couple’s resilience has been evident in tough times. In 2022, Zach suffered a season-ending knee injury, but Julie stood by his side, supporting him through recovery. Likewise, when Julie announced her retirement from professional soccer in 2023 after a heartbreaking World Cup loss, Zach’s unwavering encouragement helped her transition to the next phase of her life.
What’s Next for Zach and Julie?
With their athletic careers winding down, Zach and Julie are focusing on their family and philanthropic endeavors. Their Ertz Family Foundation continues to make a meaningful impact, while their dedication to parenting shines through in every aspect of their lives. As they step into the next chapter, Zach and Julie remain an inspiring example of love, teamwork, and perseverance.
